Bongino won't toss hat in ring for Anne Arundel executive seat

Former U.S. Senate candidate Dan Bongino said Monday he won't seek either the vacant Anne Arundel County executive position or the Maryland GOP chairmanship.

In an announcement on his Facebook page, the Severna Park businessman said he decided against seeking to fill the vacancy created when County Executive John R. Leopold resigned after being convicted last month of misconduct in office. Bongino said he would pass because the selection process "has become weighted towards insider politics."

He will not look to replace Alex X. Mooney — who announced his resignation Saturday as chair of the state Republican Party — because "it's just not right for me right now," he said in an interview. He said, however, that he expects to seek elected office in 2014.

Which Republicans are seeking appointment to fill the county executive's position until the 2014 election will be clearer on Friday, the deadline for applications at the County Council office. The council will interview candidates and vote Feb. 21.

Anne Arundel County Del. Steven Schuh said he plans to seek the appointment. Among others, County Council Vice Chair John Grasso of Glen Burnie has said he is assessing support among his colleagues. Council Chair Jerry Walker of Gambrills and Kendel Ehrlich, wife of former governor Robert Ehrlich, are considering it.